Most homeowners are typically locked into a 30 year loan with their homes and during this time, certain parts of the house will naturally deteriorate. Hiring contractors to undertake renovations or refurbishments can be very expensive and consequently, many Australian homeowners are deciding to undertake these home improvement projects themselves. Not only are they saving heaps of money, but they’re increasing the value of their home through a fun and fulfilling experience. Last year, it was estimated that a staggering two-thirds of Australian homeowners performed home improvement projects themselves!
With the internet offering an amazing source of information and resources at our fingertips, there are many tasks that homeowners can perform themselves without the need for qualified professionals. Despite this, mistakes are common and there are a number of technical aspects around the home which homeowners need assistance with. Simple mistakes can be very costly and it seems that many homeowners make the same pattern of mistakes. To give you some insight, today we’ll be reviewing our top 5 mistakes to avoid in home improvement projects. Risking safety for a quicker result Whenever performing DIY projects around the home, safety must never be compromised for a quicker or cheaper result. In many cases, using an old ladder is too unsteady and hazardous and it's strongly suggested to hire mobile scaffolding for a week or two to make sure you can finish your project safely and efficiently. Regrettably, there are too many accidents when working from heights and if you're not competent in negotiating technical aspects around the house, using power tools, or working with electrical systems, it's highly advised to delegate these tasks to a qualified contractor. Dismissing structural issues Whilst most projects involve cosmetic changes, it's also important to make certain that all structural issues are sound before you kick off. With older homes that haven't received any changes in years, often there are complications with framing, wiring, or pipes (they things you don't see) which are unplanned costs that require repairs. It is crucial that you inspect the structural aspects of your home before planning any improvement projects and if needed, make the repairs rather than disregarding them! Going beyond your budget One of the most regular oversights that folks make is going over their budget and in certain cases running out of money before their project is concluded. As a standard guide, you should budget for approximately 20% more than your planned costs to leave room for extra labour, materials, and unforeseen circumstances which require prompt attention. In some cases, folks find problems with their plumbing or electrical system which must be repaired before they cause even more costly damages down the road. Altering plans mid-project Regardless of whether you're restoring your kitchen or bathroom, it's important that you plan meticulously and follow these plans despite whether you feel you can make more improvements along the way. Almost everyone who carries out DIY projects is tempted to add extra items or alter their design a little, however these alterations not only inflate their costs but also prolong their time-frame. Whilst they may appear to be a superb idea at the time, it's important to be cautious and remember that it's just the contagious bug that is home improvement! Underestimating time-frames Very similar to going above your budget, many property owners underestimate the time it takes to finalise their DIY projects. What may appear to be a weekend job can quickly be delayed for a range of reasons so it's necessary that you're versatile with your time-frame. Although we always hope everything goes to plan, unfortunately it rarely does and budgets can be escalated very quickly! Plan extensively, be flexible, and always account for delays! Home improvement projects require lots of planning and preparation to ensure they are functional and cost-effective. Always make certain that you have the relevant council approvals and licenses before you get started, and never risk the safety or others. If you're not entirely confident in any areas of your home improvement project, always utilise a licensed contractor. DIY projects are exciting and satisfying, however it is vital that you get the job done right the first time. If you need any scaffolding or formwork for your next DIY project, don't hesitate to consult the professionals at Uni-Span by calling 1300 882 825.
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March 2019
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